On January 29, Nazarbayev University (NU) welcomed a delegation from the leading Italian engineering and technology company Maire, which specializes in the design and construction of facilities for the energy, oil & gas, and chemical industries. During the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed, aimed at expanding collaboration in education, research, human capital development, and innovation in Kazakhstan.
The MoU was signed by NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad and Maire’s Regional Vice President for Central Asia Niccolò Heilpern. The document establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation between the two parties. Maire experts will deliver lectures to students both in-person and online. The company will also offer internship and practical training opportunities at its facilities in Kazakhstan, giving students valuable hands-on experience.
“Our University prepares highly qualified, motivated, and talented graduates whose skills are recognized internationally. We collaborate with leading companies in the region, including Maire, and value their commitment to partnership. Strengthening links between our graduates and industry, and creating opportunities for practical application of knowledge, remains a core mission of the University. We explored a wide range of collaboration opportunities and are confident this partnership will be mutually beneficial,” said Waqar Ahmad.
The MoU also includes initiatives to promote academic excellence, including sponsorship, awards, and research grants for top-performing students and faculty. The parties will jointly organize workshops, seminars, conferences, and training events. Cooperation will cover consulting initiatives, applied research, and the development of innovative projects and ideas initiated by students.
In turn, Maire’s Regional Vice President Niccolò Heilpern emphasized that the MoU deepens the company’s collaboration with NU and reaffirms its commitment to fostering knowledge, innovation, and opportunities in Kazakhstan.“By actively engaging with the academic community, we contribute to the creation of meaningful in-country value and support the next generation of engineers, researchers, and innovators in the country,” he noted.
